There are many things that feature the internationally-recognizable Coca-Cola logo, from lamps and clocks to the more obvious trays, bottles, newspaper ads, and signs. All have some value if original, and with its ever-growing collectibility, that value is constantly increasing. Of course, there are some wonderfully rare items, such as chewing gum wrappers and cigar bands that sell for extreme sums. For example, a single piece of Coca-Cola flavored chewing gum – very rare due to the fact that so little was made – sold a few years ago for over $7,000; old Coca-Cola calendars have been sold for between $1,000 and $2,000; and a mint condition 1903 metal advertising sign recently sold for just over $80,000!

There are three or four particularly hot Coca-Cola categories at the present time. Any of the paper material items that were used for advertising are extremely collectable, especially those from the 1950’s on back. Coca-Cola used a lot of very good commercial artists for their advertising and they clearly give little glimpses of Americana, which is probably why they are so popular. The essential thing with paper materials, as well as any other collectibles, is condition. Condition is critical in determining the value of the piece. Experienced collectors are very particular, where condition is concerned, and for the most part will only add items that are very rare or exhibit mint condition.

Another popular category is metal serving trays. These were literally given away to drug stores, grocery stores and soda fountains in the hopes that they would be used to serve Coca-Cola products, but today they have reached very high sums and are much sought after by collectors who are “in the know.” An original circa 1922 “Summer Girl” tray can fetch at least $1,000. But, beware of the many reproduction trays that unscrupulous dealers are selling as originals. Needless to say, reproduction items can still be a joy to have around and to decorate your home, but they do not have the value, and will never increase in value as originals will.

And then there are vending machines, which people are buying for their rec. rooms and bars. Particularly popular are the nickel bottle dispensing machines from the ‘40’s and ‘50’s which sell for between $2,000 and $5,000. Kids of all ages seem to enjoy either the nostalgic trip or the new experience of yesteryear. So if you are fortunate enough to get one of these machines for Christmas, make sure you keep a cash of nickels close by for all your visitors to enjoy!

In 1986 Coca-Cola celebrated its one-hundred years, and as a result of that centennial, a whole new category of items came about. Many featured the 100th anniversary logo and, as usual, as time marches on, these centennial collectibles will become more valuable.

So whether you are collecting old or new memorabilia, make sure you know what you are collecting: an original, a centennial piece, or a reproduction piece – and if it is a reproduction, make certain that you pay accordingly.

Prices for almost all Coca-Cola memorabilia are spiraling to almost crazy heights at the present time. People are not only collecting them, but using them as major decorative features in their homes too. It’s something that many people can reminisce over and the collectability of these items looks as if it will remain very popular for some time to come.

You can find more information about collecting Coca-Cola products by contacting the Coca-Cola Collectors Club, which has a membership of over 8,000 people, at PO Box 49166, Atlanta, GA 30359. Or you may be interested to visit the Coca-Cola Memorabilia Museum in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, or the World of Coca-Cola Pavilion if you’re ever in Atlanta.